Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon: The Best Time-Saving French Stew

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is the answer to getting rich, French-inspired flavor without standing over the stove all day. This savory, melt-in-your-mouth beef stew practically cooks itself in your slow cooker, making it a no-brainer for busy weeknights or when you just don’t feel like putting in hours of kitchen prep.

Unlike the traditional version, which can take upwards of four hours with constant stirring and monitoring, my easy beef bourguignon recipe lets your slow cooker handle the heavy lifting. Minimal prep, maximum flavor, and hours of hands-off cooking? Trust me, you’ll love it.

Why This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Is a Game-Changer

• Time-saving method: Forget spending hours browning every single ingredient. This simplified step cuts down the labor without losing flavor.
• Set-it-and-forget-it: Once your ingredients are in the slow cooker, you can walk away for 8 hours while it works magic.
• Unbeatable tenderness: The slow cooker brings out the best in beef chuck, making it fall-apart tender.
• One-pot cleanup: All the cooking happens in a single slow cooker, leaving fewer dishes to wash.

Equipment You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

To create the best slow cooker beef stew, you’ll need just a few simple tools:

• Slow Cooker: Any 6-quart slow cooker works well. I recommend one with a programmable timer so you don’t have to worry about overcooking.
• Large Skillet: For browning the beef and bacon to enhance flavor before transferring to the slow cooker.
• Whisk: To blend flour smoothly into the sauce for a silky finish.

No need for fancy appliances—just practical tools that get the job done.

Simple Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this homemade beef bourguignon cooking marvel:

• Beef bacon: Adds a smoky depth to the stew without complicating the process.
• Beef chuck: The ultimate cut for slow cooker recipes, its marbled fat ensures tenderness.
• Baby potatoes: I love using tri-color potatoes for their vibrant look and buttery texture.
• Fresh thyme: Provides an earthy aroma that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.

Pro tip: Pre-sliced mushrooms and pre-minced garlic save even more prep time!

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Recipe Details

• Servings: 6 servings
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 9 hours
• Total Time: 9 hours 20 minutes

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Ingredients

• 5 slices diced beef bacon
• 3 pounds boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup flour
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh thyme or 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 5 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 pound baby potatoes (tri-color, if possible)
• 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

1. In a large skillet, cook the diced beef bacon over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes until crisp. Transfer the cooked bacon to the slow cooker.
2. Season the beef chuck cubes with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, brown the beef on each side for 2-3 minutes. Add the browned beef to the slow cooker.
3. Deglaze the skillet: Scrape up the browned bits from the bottom, then stir in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and soy sauce. Gradually whisk in the flour until smooth and simmer for 1-2 minutes. Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
4. Add the minced garlic, thyme, carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms. Stir everything together to ensure the sauce coats the vegetables and beef.
5. Set your slow cooker to LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 6 hours. Let it cook until the beef is fork-tender.
6. Finish with fresh parsley for garnish and serve hot. Pair with mashed potatoes if desired for the ultimate comfort meal.

Jake’s Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon

• Don’t skip the browning: Searing the beef and bacon adds depth to the final dish.
• Layer strategically: Put the beef and sauce at the bottom of the slow cooker and the veggies on top for even cooking.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prep everything the night before and refrigerate. Simply start the slow cooker in the morning.
• Storing leftovers: This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes for up to 3 months.
• Shortcut alert: Pre-cut veggies and pre-minced garlic are lifesavers!

Easy Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon Variations

• Red wine version: Swap 1 cup of the chicken broth for dry red wine for a more traditional French flavor.
• Vegetable boost: Add chopped parsnips or celery along with the carrots for extra veggies.
• Low-carb option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a keto-friendly twist.

Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble all the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before. Refrigerate it overnight and simply start cooking in the morning.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely. While beef chuck is my go-to, brisket or even stew meat work well in this recipe.

Should I use fresh or dried thyme?

Both work great. Fresh thyme gives a vibrant flavor, while dried is more convenient and lasts longer in your pantry.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cooking on HIGH for 6 hours works, but for the most tender beef, I recommend low and slow.

What should I serve with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, crusty French bread, or egg noodles pair beautifully with the rich sauce.

You’re going to love how easy and satisfying this Slow Cooker Beef Bourguignon is! What’s your favorite kitchen shortcut? Share it in the comments below—and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next cozy dinner idea.